Bad Side Effects From Wellbutrin

Rae Uddin

About the Author:

Rae Uddin

Rae Uddin has worked as a freelance writer and editor since 2004. She specializes in scientific journalism and medical and technical writing. Her work has appeared in various online publications. Uddin earned her Master of Science in integrated biomedical sciences with an emphasis in molecular and cellular biochemistry from the University of Kentucky College of Medicine.

Wellbutrin (bupropion) is a prescription antidepressant medication indicated for the treatment of depression and seasonal affective disorder. This medication is administered orally (tablet or extended-release tablet) and should be taken as prescribed by your doctor. While taking this medication, you can experience negative side effects from Wellbutrin, which should be discussed with your doctor.

Headache

Wellbutrin treatment can cause headaches, often severe migraines. Such side effects may progressively subside with recurrent Wellbutrin treatment.

Sleeping Problems

In clinical trials, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported that 18.6 percent of 323 patients receiving Wellbutrin treatment experienced difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep throughout the night (insomnia). Similar side effects were experienced by 15.7 percent of 185 patients receiving placebo. Certain patients may alternatively develop abnormal daytime tiredness or fatigue while taking Wellbutrin, which can have a negative effect on the completion of daily activities or tasks.

Stomach Upset

After taking a dose of Wellbutrin, you may experience stomach upset as a side effect of this medication. Symptoms of stomach upset primarily include nausea or vomiting. Certain patients may also develop bowel movement difficulty (constipation), which can cause additional side effects of abdominal bloating, cramping or pain. Such side effects can contribute to decreased appetite, which can cause certain patients to lose weight while taking Wellbutrin.

Skin Rash

Wellbutrin treatment can cause you to develop a mild skin rash as a side effect of this medication, report health professionals at Drugs, a peer-reviewed informational drug website. If this occurs, your skin can appear red or inflamed and may become itchy or irritated.

Decreased Libido

During Wellbutrin treatment, you may experience a decrease in your sexual desire or drive (libido). Some patients also experience difficulty becoming aroused or having an orgasm due to decreased libido caused by this medication.

Suicidal Thoughts

Certain patients, especially those under the age of 24, are at an increased risk of experiencing suicidal thoughts while receiving treatment with antidepressants such as Wellbutrin.